What is WIJ?

Women in Journalism is a networking, campaigning, training and social organisation for women journalists who work across all the written media, from newspapers and magazines to the new media. WIJ grew out of a demand for women to be more effectively represented at senior level in newspapers and magazines, and has since evolved into a forum for women in journalism at all levels.

Since it began twelve years ago, the number of women editors and deputy editors in national newspapers has increased significantly, but WIJ is also effective on a personal level - its bi-monthly seminars, held in a central London location, have been hugely successful. Topics are diverse and designed to appeal to both staff and freelance journalists with subjects such as 'How to ask for more money', 'What features editors want', 'Get your own column' and 'How to write a bestseller'! Panellists are senior women (and occasionally men) in the industry. The seminars begin and end with a glass of wine and plenty of time for socialising.

Research topics have included an analysis of the way women are portrayed in newspapers, the ratio of men to women in policy-making positions and the way pictures of women are used in newspapers.

The WIJ summer and Christmas parties are now major events in the media calendar and provide more valuable networking opportunities between members and their guests. Events have also been held in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle and Birmingham.

And this year, WIJ is delighted to announce the launch of a new student wing. Keen to encourage and promote fresh talent, WIJ is throwing open its doors to young female writers eager to make an impact on the British media. For more information on our student arm, go to WHY JOIN?